Navigating MS Treatment: A Guide to Choosing the Right Oral Medication
Published: Sep 16, 2023
With multiple oral medications now available for MS, choosing the right treatment can be overwhelming. This guide will help you understand the factors to consider when selecting an oral MS drug.
Contents
Assess Your MS Type and Activity
The first step in choosing an MS medication is understanding your specific type of MS and how active your disease is. Most oral drugs are approved for relapsing forms of MS, including clinically isolated syndrome (CIS), relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), and active secondary progressive MS (SPMS). Your doctor will consider factors like how frequently you have relapses and whether you have new lesions on MRI scans.
Consider Your Health Profile
Your overall health and any other medical conditions play a crucial role in medication selection. Some MS drugs may not be suitable if you have heart problems, liver disease, or a history of certain infections. Pregnancy plans are another important consideration, as some medications can harm a developing fetus. Be sure to discuss your full medical history and future health goals with your healthcare team.
Weigh Efficacy vs Side Effects
Different oral MS medications have varying levels of effectiveness and side effect profiles. Some drugs, like fingolimod, may be more potent but also carry higher risks. Others, like teriflunomide, might have a more moderate effect but could be better tolerated. Your doctor can help you balance the potential benefits against the risks for your individual situation. Consider which side effects you're most concerned about and which you feel you could manage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but switching should be done carefully under medical supervision.
Newer doesn't always mean better - effectiveness and safety vary by individual.
It can take several months to fully evaluate a medication's effectiveness.
Coverage varies, but many insurers do cover oral MS drugs with proper documentation.
Key Takeaways
Choosing an MS medication is a highly individual process that requires careful consideration of multiple factors.
Ready to find the right oral MS medication for you? Let Doctronic guide you through the decision-making process.Related Articles
References
Derfuss T, et al. Advances in oral immunomodulating therapies in relapsing multiple sclerosis. Lancet Neurol 2020; 19:336.
McGinley MP, Cohen JA. Sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulators in multiple sclerosis and other conditions. Lancet 2021; 398:1184.
Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.